St. Clair College signed an agreement with the Canadian Military, Veteran and Family Connected Campus Consortium (CMVF3C) during a signing ceremony at HMCS Hunter, reaffirming its commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families.
The signing – on Feb. 26, 2026 – featured local military leaders, College officials and serving members to announce a new memorandum of understanding which represents a shared vision of inclusive, student-focused education. It also recognizes St. Clair College's commitment to supporting military-connected students through strategic partnerships, and national collaboration.
"St. Clair College is proud to embark on this meaningful partnership with HMCS Hunter – an organization that, like us, is deeply rooted in service, community engagement and personal development," said St. Clair College President, Michael Silvaggi. "This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to creating opportunities for individuals to grow, learn and contribute to society in impactful ways."
"Through this agreement, we are pleased to offer educational pathways, academic credit for military experience and enhanced supports for reservists, active duty personnel, cadets, veterans and military families," President Silvaggi said. "It is our way of honouring the dedication and sacrifice of those who serve in the Canadian Armed Forces."
"If St. Clair College can support their goals – whether academic, professional or personal – even in the smallest measure, then it is both our privilege and our honour to do so," President Silvaggi said.
The CMVF3C is a consortium of post-secondary institutions and associated community partners committed to advancing military, veteran and family connected campuses in Canada and beyond.
Speakers at Thursday's signing ceremony also included Lt. Commander Chris Elliott, Commanding Officer of HMCS Hunter.
"Military-connected learners enrich classrooms through their lived experiences and the unique perspectives gained in service to our country," said Lt. Commander Elliott.
"St. Clair College's efforts today signal a strong commitment to creating welcoming environments where military-connected students are understood, supported, and set up for success. This is a meaningful step toward building a stronger bridge between the local military and academic communities."
"As we navigate global conflicts, uncertain economic outlooks, and changing international policies, now more than ever, we must build partnerships across Canada's leading institutions," said Lt. Commander Elliott. "Post secondary Institutions like St. Clair College play a crucial role across the lifespan of a military connected learner, from recruiting our next generation, to upskilling and retaining our top talent, and transitioning our veterans back to civilian life."
"As a Windsorite, born and raised, I am humbled to play a role in formalizing this collaboration and support the efforts being put forward to strengthen our community by supporting those who serve our country," Lt. Commander Elliott added.
The goal of the agreement is to benefit students at St. Clair College who also happen to be serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, facilitating success and providing support while in military service and attending school.
Sailor 1st Class Blake Blanchard is one of the people who stand to benefit from the agreement. He's travelled the world as part of a three-year deployment as a cook on board the Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel, HMCS Harry DeWolf.
He's now attending St. Clair College in the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees, and in the fall, will be studying in the Paramedic program.
"Transitioning from the high-tempo environment of a galley on ship to the academic life of college has been a bit of a culture shock for me – it's a different kind of busy, one that took some getting used to," Blanchard said. "But I look forward to applying the skills and knowledge I've learned at St. Clair College to my career in uniform."
Outside of school, he leads a very busy lifestyle, often deployed to far-away places during his "off time."
"That is why seeing the College join this consortium is significant. As a student-sailor, this represents that the College recognizes the unique challenges reservists can face," he said. "Knowing that St. Clair is committed makes my life that much easier. It gives me, and fellow students like me, the support system we need to succeed in our studies without having to sacrifice our commitment to the Canadian Armed Forces."
The agreement takes immediate effect and further establishes the relationship between the HMCS Hunter – Canada's most decorated Naval reserve – and St. Clair College.
Twenty plus current St. Clair College students who are also reservists stand to immediately benefit from the memorandum of understanding.
"To the faculty and staff at St. Clair: thank you for recognizing our service and for making this formal commitment," Sailor Blanchard said. "I look forward to continuing my training both here and in class, knowing I'm in the right place to do both."
